Best Old- Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe (Family Favorite with Double Topping)

Apple crisp is a recipe that’s close to my heart. My mother-in-law first shared this recipe with me, and it quickly became a staple in our family. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make it even better; like mixing Gala and Fuji apples for the perfect sweet-tart flavor, and doubling the topping (because let’s be honest, the topping is everyone’s favorite part!).

One little secret I’ve discovered is adding baking powder to the topping. It makes it light, airy, and perfectly crisp every single time. Today, I’m sharing our family’s go-to apple crisp recipe so you can enjoy it too! It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for fall or any time you’re craving warm, cozy comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp 🍏

• ✅ Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients

• ✅ Family-approved (especially with extra topping!)

• ✅ The mix of Gala + Fuji apples adds the perfect balance of sweetness

• ✅ The topping bakes up crisp, airy, and golden brown thanks to baking powder

• ✅ Great for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy night in

Ingredients for the Filling

• 6 Gala + Fuji apples (peeled and sliced)

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 3 tbsp flour

• 1 cup sugar

Ingredients for the Topping (Double the topping if your family loves extra crunch like mine!)

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 cup oatmeal

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ cup melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, cinnamon, flour, and sugar. Toss until apples are evenly coated. Transfer mixture into a 9x13 glass baking dish.

3. Make the topping: In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, oatmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.

4. Assemble: Spread the topping evenly over the apples. (Tip: double the topping if your family loves extra crunch like mine!)

5. Bake: Place dish in oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and apples are bubbling.

6. Cool slightly and serve: Enjoy warm, plain or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

   
   
   
   

Tips & Variations 🍨

• Apple Variety: Use a mix of Gala and Fuji for balance, or swap in Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the filling + topping separately, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

• Serving Ideas: Top with ice cream, caramel drizzle, or even a little cheddar cheese (a classic combo in some families!).

• Double Topping Trick: If you love extra crispiness, make 1½–2x the topping recipe.

This apple crisp recipe has been a family tradition in our home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. It’s simple, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it out, and let me know do you like extra topping like we do?

👉 Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest so you can make it again and again!